Health Ombudsman v MacDonald [2016] QCAT 473

On 22 November 2016, the matter of the Health Ombudsman v Dorothy MacDonald was heard on the papers by the Hon J B Thomas in the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT). Judge Thomas found Ms MacDonald’s conduct was professional misconduct and suspended her registration as a nurse for six months from the date of the order. Judge Thomas also ordered that Ms MacDonald pay the Health Ombudsman’s costs of the proceedings.

Ms MacDonald’s conduct related to the stealing of schedule 4 restricted drugs, with the intention of supplying the drugs to her niece.

QCAT’s decision means that Ms MacDonald cannot work as a registered nurse for a period of six months.